A story of change
The transformative impact of Accommodation for Ex-offenders
CB’s experience shows how AfEO support and collaboration can help someone build confidence, overcome practical barriers and move forward after time in the criminal justice system.
ARK Resettlement Services
Practical support. New possibilities.
Understanding the barriers
When everyday tasks become obstacles
When CB was referred to ARKRS through our AfEO floating support programme, a lack of digital skills made it difficult to access essential services. Tasks that many people take for granted stood in the way of his next steps.
Universal Credit
CB’s Universal Credit was sent as a barcode to his phone, adding a digital barrier to managing essential support.
Checking his journal
Limited digital skills made it difficult to check his Universal Credit journal and keep up with information online.
Accessing emails
Checking emails was another challenge, making it harder to use the online services needed for everyday life.
Support that meets the person
Starting with the essentials
Through dedicated housing support from AfEO, CB received assistance in securing a support fund for essentials. This practical help addressed immediate needs while creating space to consider what could come next.
His experience reflects why resettlement needs a holistic approach. Accommodation matters, but so does helping someone navigate the everyday challenges that can make rebuilding a life difficult.
Explore our housing supportA pivotal moment
Collaboration opened a new door
A referral to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) outreach team connected CB with further help around Education, Training and Employment (ETE).
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01
The right connection
CB was referred to the DWP outreach team for support with learning, training and employment opportunities.
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02
A practical resource
The DWP offered CB a laptop, giving him a way to access the internet and use essential online services.
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03
New possibilities
Together, AfEO, ARKRS and the DWP helped CB develop essential digital skills and access opportunities for personal and professional growth.
More than a laptop
Digital access makes a practical difference
With access to the internet, CB could take steps towards managing everyday responsibilities and exploring his future. The laptop enabled him to:
- Search for job opportunities and apply for jobs.
- Set up a bank account.
- Renew his driver’s licence.
- Apply for training programmes.
The wider picture
A foundation for moving forward
CB’s story shows the value of looking at the whole person. Help with essentials, digital access and connections to other services can work together to make a different future feel possible.
Across London, we bring accommodation, mentoring and community support together to help people reintegrate into society and reduce reoffending. Discover more about our programmes and the support we offer.
Take the next step
Talk to us about resettlement support
Whether you need support yourself or would like to discuss a referral for someone else, contact our team to talk about their circumstances and next steps.